Kidney stones are a common urinary disease that occurs when minerals in urine deposit and crystallize. According to a study by MSc. Nguyen Truong Hoan from the Department of Urology at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, around 1-13% of the world’s population has kidney stones, with 2-12% of the Vietnamese population affected. Out of these, 40% are kidney stones.
Treatment for kidney stones depends on several factors such as size, location, and complexity. Small stones measuring 4-6 mm can be treated with medication and increased water intake to dissolve and shrink them so they can be excreted through urine. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is a non-invasive method that uses shock wave energy to break up kidney stones, while percutaneous and endoscopic lithotripsy are minimally invasive methods that involve inserting a laser device to crush and remove stones.
In some cases, open surgery may be necessary for large and complicated stones. However, this method is highly invasive and poses risks of complications, so it is not the preferred option. After treatment, patients are advised to change their lifestyle habits such as drinking plenty of water, limiting certain foods and substances, exercising regularly, and having regular check-ups to detect any recurrent stones early on.
People experiencing symptoms like severe back pain, hematuria (blood in the urine), recurrent urinary tract infections, painful urination (dysuria), cloudy urine (pyuria), fever or chills should seek medical attention immediately as they may be at risk of developing more severe urinary tract diseases like kidney stones. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent dangerous complications and preserve kidney function.
In conclusion, kidney stones are a common condition that can cause discomfort and even lead to serious health problems if left untreated. By understanding the symptoms and seeking prompt medical attention when needed, individuals can effectively manage their condition and improve their quality of life.
